The Nigeria Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) has issued a warning to electricity distribution companies across the states, urging them to promptly address customers' faulty meters within a two-week timeframe. NERC emphasized the rights of customers to have their faulty meters repaired or replaced within two working days, unless the fault lies with the customer. The commission also highlighted the importance of meter safety and preventing unauthorized access. Additionally, the regulations require that payment details be clearly stated on bills, which must be delivered by the agreed means at least ten days before the due date.
The Nigeria Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) has recently directed all electricity distribution companies operating across the country to urgently resolve customers' faulty meters within a maximum of two weeks. NERC issued this warning at a workshop on metering issues held in Kano state, organized for Civil Society Organizations and Consumer Advocacy Groups.
According to NERC's findings in 2022, out of the registered energy customer population of 12.78 million, only 4.77 million customers (37.3%) had functional meters. This discrepancy has been a cause for concern, leading to numerous complaints from customers.
Dr. Abdulkadir Shettima, the General Manager of Finance and Management Services at NERC, stressed that customers have the right to have their faulty meters repaired or replaced within two working days upon complaint, as long as the fault is not caused by them. If the meter fault is the customer's responsibility, they will be required to make an upfront payment for the repair or replacement.
Furthermore, NERC emphasized that any credit remaining on the old meter should be transferred to the new one, ensuring customers do not lose any unused energy units. This provision seeks to protect customers' investments in electricity consumption.
While customers have the right to expect prompt meter repairs or replacements, they also have obligations regarding meter safety. NERC highlighted the need for customers to take measures to safeguard the meter and prevent unauthorized access, which could result in tampering or fraudulent activities.
The Deputy General Manager for Consumer Affairs at NERC, Dr. Shittu Shaibu, also highlighted the importance of accurate billing and payment processes. According to the Consumer Protection Regulations (CPR) 2023, every bill must clearly state the payment required, and the customer must receive it through the agreed means at least ten days prior to the due date. This provision allows customers sufficient time for payment preparation or dispute resolution.
Additionally, the CPR grants customers an additional two working days as a grace period before disconnection, ensuring fair treatment and avoiding abrupt electricity cutoffs.
The recent NERC directives aim to address customers' concerns, improve metering services, and enhance consumer protection in the electricity sector. By ensuring prompt meter repairs or replacements and promoting transparency in billing, NERC seeks to increase customer satisfaction and confidence in the Nigerian electricity supply system.
Source of content: OOO News 2023-08-30 News
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